SBA Business Development Officer

About the role

The SBA Business Development Officer (BDO) is responsible for sourcing, developing, and closing SBA 7(a) and 504 lending opportunities that support the growth of small businesses within the Bank’s target markets. This role proactively identifies and cultivates relationships with business owners, commercial real estate investors, referral partners, brokers, and centers of influence to build a strong and sustainable lending pipeline.

Responsibilities

• Engage in business development activities to source and close SBA loan requests.
• Interview prospective applicants and requests specified information related to loan application; continually correspond with applicants to resolve questions regarding application information.
• Gather and analyze all information necessary to present a financing request to underwriter, SBA Department Manager, President/CEO, Chief Credit Officer, etc.
• Perform prequalification assessment and analysis of applicant’s financial condition.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of financial industry, economy, market conditions, rates, vendors and competition.
• Continuously strengthen the referral source network.
• Meet with prospects and referral sources to generate leads whenever possible.
• Leverage centers of influence by proactively fostering quality relationships.
• Stay actively involved with professional and/or community organizations by representing CalPrivate Bank at appropriate professional and community events.
• Participate in cross-referrals with other bank staff.
• Create an atmosphere of teamwork and collaboration throughout CalPrivate Bank.
• Cross-sell CalPrivate Bank’s other products and services as appropriate.
• Host educational sessions/give presentations to bank staff, prospects and centers of influence to review SBA products and programs.
• Address customer service issues with both clients and bank staff as needed.

Requirements

This role requires 50% travel to support clients, cultivate business development opportunities, and meet with prospects. It also requires the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time, physically use a keyboard/mouse, walk to and from workstations, frequently lift and/or move up to 10lbs, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive experience in SBA lending, with a proven track record originating SBA 7(a) and/or 504 loans, preferably within a private or commercial banking environment.
• In-depth knowledge of SBA program guidelines, SOP requirements, credit structures, eligibility standards, and documentation processes.
• Demonstrated success in business development, including building and maintaining referral networks with brokers, CPAs, attorneys, real estate professionals, and small business centers of influence.
• Strong credit acumen, including the ability to analyze financial statements, evaluate collateral, assess risk, and structure complex lending solutions.
• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills, with the ability to engage small business owners, provide consultative guidance, and deliver a high-touch experience aligned with CalPrivate’s service culture.
• Proven ability to manage a high-volume pipeline, while meeting production goals, deadlines, and compliance expectations with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Collaborative and team-oriented, with experience partnering closely with underwriting, credit administration, operations, and deposit teams to ensure smooth loan processing.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing demands and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with loan origination systems, financial analysis tools, CRM platforms, and Microsoft Office applications.

Skills

• Experience in SBA lending and business development.
• Knowledge of SBA program guidelines and SOP requirements.
• Strong analytical and credit evaluation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to manage a high-volume workload and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with loan origination systems and financial analysis tools.

Benefits

CalPrivate Bank offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work environment that fosters growth and development. We value our employees and strive to provide a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work.

Pay

Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Full-time position with flexible working hours to accommodate travel and client needs.